18 AUGUST 2017

Thompson Says Fury Avoided Him

Tony Thompson claims that Tyson Fury ducked out of fighting him recently.

The American two-time world heavyweight title challenger did manage to find a Briton willing him to face him and boxes David Price (15-0) in a 12 rounder at Liverpool’s Echo Arena on Saturday 23rd February.

Thompson (36-3) has twice challenged Wladimir Klitschko for world titles lasting until the 11th round in July 2008 and six rounds last summer.

The Washington southpaw who is still top 10 ranked said: “Tyson Fury’s people came on to discuss a fight and I never heard another word after I said I was up for it and they went for Kevin Johnson instead.

“Fair play to David’s people for taking this challenge because there are other guys who wouldn’t dare step in with me having had just 15 pro fights.

“I have a lot to gain by beating David because he is a top ten fighter. I am the guy supposedly on the way out looking to stay in contention.”

Thompson clearly realises it might be his final opportunity to stay at world level, and has promised Price the toughest night of his professional career so far.

He added: “Frank Maloney has put David in the firing line.

“When Frank offered me the fight it was a great one to take and prove I still belong at the higher echelons of boxing.

“I lost one fight early in my career, but apart from that the only person to beat me is Wladimir and there is no shame in that.

“This is the perfect fight to see if I still belong in the top ten and deserve another title shot.

“It is also the perfect fight for David. He is one of the young lions trying to unseat one of the old lion’s and take his place in the top 4 or 5 and earn his title shot.”

Two British title contests take place on the same bill.

Price’s friend Kevin Satchell (9-0) makes the first defence of his flyweight title against Luke Wilton (13-2-1).